Intercontinental Exchange has confirmed that it is considering making an offer for the London Stock Exchange, following the announcement last week of merger talks between the LSE and Deutsche Bourse.
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However, the negotiations could be disrupted by Intercontinental Exchange (ICE), the owner of the New York Stock Exchange, which has appointed advisers to prepare a bid that could trump that deal, according to a Bloomberg report.
Few days back, London Stock Exchange and Deutsche Börse AG (DBOEY.PK,DBOEF.PK) announced key terms for the potential merger.
It said a firm intention to make an offer – or not to – will be made no later than 5 p.m. on March 29.
ICE is planning a counter bid for LSEG in an attempt to scuttle a merger with Deutsche Boerse, Bloomberg reported on Monday citing sources. While a counterbid for LSE is the most likely option that CME is studying, discussions are at an early stage and the Chicago-based exchange may choose not to proceed, they said. A representative for Deutsche Boerse didn’t immediately respond to requests for comment.
ICE, led by Jeff Sprecher, is a repeat acquirer.
ICE also is no stranger to unsolicited offers for competitors.
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The following year, ICE bought NYSE, along with its European derivatives arm, for $8.2 billion.
